Walk Leader:      Jaq

Number on walk: 5

Distance:            21 miles

Weather:           Glorious sunshine most of the day

The walk started at 8.30am from the Heron Corn Mill, Beetham.  It's never a good feeling to drive through heavy rain to the start of a walk but by the time the 5 walkers (all ladies) had gathered in the car park the clouds had rolled back to be replaced by sunshine.  It was the beginning of what turned out to be a beautiful, late summer day.

We set off promptly only to be brought to a halt because the first stile and field had disappeared in a mini-lake. A short deviation along the road put us back on track.  We crossed the fields to a woodland path towards Marble Quarry and after a short section of road crossed Thang Moss (not too wet) to reach Cringlebarrow Wood and eventually the beautiful view point above Leighton Hall, where we stopped for a morning break.

Continuing across Leighton Moss, we followed the Trough around Hawes Water, where with a little help, we managed to avoid another flooded section. After passing through the village of Siverdale we lunched on benches in a sheltered sunny spot overlooking the sea.

From here we followed the coastal path around Arnside Park and then up Arnside Knott to the viewing point, where a short break allowed us to enjoy the fine views across Morecambe Bay, the Lakes and the Howgills.

Dropping down hill we discovered that the area around Black Dyke was completely under water and although beautiful in the sunlight was completely impassable. Another short road diversion kept our feet dry.

We passed Hazelstack Tower Farm, with it's ancient keep, and then the Fairy Steps (unfortunately no one was granted a wish) before crossing Beetham Fell and coming out on the banks of the River Bella for a pleasant walk to Milnthorpe Bridge and Dallam Park. A short walk across the park, with it's deer, brought us back to the car park..... still in the sunshine.

A fine walk, beautiful weather and excellent company.... a good day!    Photos can be seen 'here'